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Local MP calls for children to be allowed to attend Great Yorkshire Show

Tuesday, 28 October 2025 10:45

Great Yorkshire Show

Tom Gordon, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, has spoken in Parliament about adopting a more flexible approach to school term-time holidays.

He suggested that children should be allowed to attend the Great Yorkshire Show for its educational value.

Several local families have voiced concern that current school attendance rules prevent children from taking time off to visit the event, which they say provides valuable hands-on learning about farming, food production, and the careers that support the agricultural sector.

Tom Gordon said:

“The Great Yorkshire Show is more than just a day out – it’s an incredible educational experience.

“It gives young people the chance to understand where their food comes from, see farming in action, and explore a wide range of careers in agriculture and food production.

"It’s disappointing that children are missing out on such opportunities simply because of rigid school holiday rules.”

Gordon urged the Government and local education authorities to take a pragmatic approach that would allow pupils to attend the show without disrupting their studies.

He emphasised that participation in the event could help young people in Yorkshire learn more about the region’s farming heritage and the industries shaping its future.

Fellow Yorkshire MP Robbie Moore has also voiced support for reviewing the current rules, agreeing that local children should be able to benefit from the educational opportunities the Great Yorkshire Show offers.

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